STEPwise approach to surveillance (STEPS)

The WHO STEPwise approach to Surveillance (STEPS) is a simple, standardized method for collecting, analysing and disseminating data in WHO member countries.

By using the same standardized questions and protocols, all countries can use STEPS information not only for monitoring within-country trends, but also for making comparisons across countries. The approach encourages the collection of small amounts of useful information on a regular and continuing basis.

There are currently two primary STEPS surveillance systems, the STEPwise approach to risk factor surveillance and the STEPwise approach to Stroke surveillance.